Ancient Egypt, Late Period Faience Nefertem Amulet - 50 mm

Step back into the rich tapestry of Ancient Egyptian mythology with this Egyptian Faience Striding Nefertem Amulet, a delicate artifact from the Late Dynastic Period, spanning the 26th to 31st Dynasty, circa 664 to 332 BCE. This piece is a remarkable example of the ancient Egyptians' adept skill in creating faience, a glazed ceramic material, and their deep-seated reverence for their pantheon of gods.

The amulet depicts Nefertem, revered as the god of perfumes, healing, and beautification, known for his connection to the lotus flower—an emblem of creation and rebirth. Nefertem stands in the classic striding pose, with his left leg advanced, signifying movement and progress. His arms are held closely to his sides, denoting a formal and respectful stance. The light green glaze covering the amulet mirrors the fresh hues of the Nile Delta's life-giving vegetation and the lotus bloom that crowns the deity's head.

Measuring 0.66" L x 0.39" W x 1.97" H (1.7 cm x 1 cm x 5 cm), the amulet's size indicates it was likely worn as a personal talisman, offering protection and the favor of the divine to its bearer. The pierced suspension hole along the dorsal pillar suggests it was strung and worn around the neck, a common practice in ancient Egyptian culture to keep the gods close to one's heart.

The name 'Nefertum' means "one who does not close," paralleling the ever-blooming nature of the lotus and the perpetual renewal it symbolizes. This association is deeply ingrained in the god's iconography, and the amulet would have served as a potent symbol of perpetual youth, beauty, and the sweet aroma of the lotus flower—qualities highly cherished in ancient Egyptian society.

Despite the passage of over two millennia, the amulet has survived in excellent condition, with only minor abrasions and some fading to the glaze pigment. The finer details have softened over time, yet the preservation of the overall form is remarkable, maintaining the integrity of Nefertem's representation.

The provenance of this piece contributes significantly to its value. Once part of the collection of Dr. W. Benson Harer in Los Angeles, California, it was acquired from Superior Galleries in 1975 and originally belonged to the collection of Philip Mitry, a notable antiquarian. Its history and journey from Egypt to the United States further attest to its authenticity.

A Certificate of Authenticity accompanies this amulet, underscoring its status as a genuine artifact of Ancient Egypt's storied past. It stands as a testament to the ancient Egyptians' artistic skill and the enduring legacy of their religious beliefs.

Visual Analysis:
This faience amulet of Nefertem is a tangible piece of ancient Egyptian religious life. The depiction of the god in a striding pose with the iconic lotus crown and the vibrant light green glaze speaks to the artistry of Late Dynastic Egypt. The amulet's condition, with evidence of wear yet retaining its essential form, points to its age and the care with which it was treated. Its small size and the presence of a suspension hole confirm its use as personal adornment, likely worn to invoke the divine protection and blessings associated with Nefertem. The wear on the piece does not detract from its charm but rather adds to the narrative of its historical and cultural journey.